In general, you would expect the platform of a political party to a. determine the outcome of a general election. b. consist of party leaders called planks. c. lead to a national convention. d. guide the political issues of the party's candidate.

The correct answer is D. guide the political issues of the party's candidate.

A political platform is a set of beliefs possessed by a political party. These platforms are usually made up of issues that individuals within a political party feel strongly about. This can include government involvement in the economy, foreign relations, immigration policies, etc. Ultimately, a candidate should use the platform in order to guide their actions while in office.